Too many controls tied to frustrating touchscreen interface
Ride is a little busier than you might expect from a luxury crossover
Former T8 plug-in hybrid is now called Recharge
Adaptive headlights, hands-free liftgate and rear USB-C ports added as standard
Part of the second XC60 generation introduced for 2018
Edmunds' Expert Rating
Rated for you by America’s best
Our verdict
7.9 / 10
This XC60 is the latest generation of Volvo's best-selling vehicle, and it has never looked better, inside and out. The XC60 is not only squarely in the luxury space now, but it brings something different to a class of familiar segment offerings. This Volvo did more than just impress us during testing. We think it has what it takes to compete in a heavily contested luxury SUV class.
How does the XC60 drive?
7.5
The twin-charged T6 engine has the best balance of power and dynamics of the available XC60 models. No one should be disappointed with the amount of power, and the brakes deliver smooth yet responsive stopping performance. The adjustable suspension gives the XC60 some extra ground clearance, which can be especially helpful in inclement weather.
While the XC60 is a solid midpack contender, it does have some flaws worth noting. Surges in power from the twin-charged engine mean some issues with low-speed drivability, but a well-tuned transmission helps even things out. Steering and handling are a bit behind the curve for a luxury SUV, though, lacking some of the precision that rivals possess.
How comfortable is the XC60?
8.0
It might not be the sportiest vehicle in the segment, but the XC60 is one of the most comfortable SUVs in its class. Seating comfort is a strong point of the XC60 thanks largely to soft-padded surfaces and available features such as massaging seats. The four-zone climate control is also a rather luxurious optional feature, and it works well in all four zones (even if it does take a minute to get the coldest of A/C temps going).
Cabin noise in the XC60 is relatively hushed, although you may hear some supercharger whine at low speeds if you've got the stereo turned off. And unfortunately Volvo hasn't optimized the air suspension for ride comfort, and the ride can be busy over broken surfaces.
How’s the interior?
7.5
Volvo's approach to interior design is clean and simple, but it comes at the expense of convenience and usability. Many functions are touchscreen-controlled. And almost everything takes two button presses when one would normally do, and that becomes a hassle when on the move. Getting in and out of the XC60 can be a bit tough since the floor's step-over height is a little on the tall side and the angled front doors are a little on the short side.
The cabin is pretty spacious, with the exception of a panoramic sunroof eating up a little headroom. Volvo went above expectations when it comes to visibility, with the XC60's thin pillars, excellent (optional) 360-degree parking camera and power-folding rear headrests.
How’s the tech?
8.5
Volvo backs up its new modern styling with a ton of well-executed technology. It might not be innovating as boldly as the German manufacturers, but the features and driving aids available here are, for the most part, very useful. The optional 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system is highly configurable and provides excellent sound quality along with sleek-looking speakers.
Connecting your smartphone is easy, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. The voice controls work well to execute navigation and phone-call commands, and they even turn on the heated seats. The XC60's safety systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist are easy to access and work well on busy freeways.
How’s the storage?
8.5
Utility is another strong area for the XC60 thanks to a generous cargo area and smart configuration options. At 29.7 cubic feet, volume is generous for segment, and an innovative cargo cover can either slide up or retract completely. The air suspension allows you to lower the rear-end height for easier loading, and there's both a ski pass-through and 60/40-split flat-folding seatbacks.
In-cabin storage is decent, and there are felt- and rubber-lined door pockets that keep items from clanking around while you're on the road. Installing your child's car seat is relatively easy too, with flip-up seat anchors and enough space for two rear-facing seats.
How economical is the XC60?
6.0
The efficiency of Volvo's twin-charged 2.0-liter may match up with the competition by EPA standards, but it returned lower mpg numbers than we'd expect. The T6 engine is rated at 23 mpg (21 city/27 highway), and we average 22.7 mpg on our mixed-driving loop and 19.3 mpg over two weeks of driving.
Is the XC60 a good value?
7.5
Volvo's latest crop of vehicles has certainly elevated the brand's market position and that usually means an elevated price tag. That's true for the XC60, which is priced similarly to other European small luxury SUVs. But the good news is that the XC60 feels well worth the money and even offers you some optional features (such as integrated rear child-booster seats) that aren't typically found in rival models.
The build quality is excellent, and Volvo matches most segment competitors with its warranties. Scheduled maintenance coverage is typical for luxury vehicles at three years/36,000 miles, but roadside assistance is above average at four years/unlimited miles. Volvo also offers free towing for the life of the vehicle, a unique perk regardless of how much you've paid for your car.
Wildcard
8.0
We love what Volvo has done with the new XC60 even if it doesn't actually impress us from a dynamic standpoint. But it doesn't have to, because the majority of people buying this vehicle aren't often focused on dynamics first. User-friendly interfaces and driver aids make it easy to log miles, but it's not the car you'd choose first for a windy mountain road. That said, the design is strikingly good-looking.
Just about any small luxury SUV you research is going to be practical and useful. But is it also stylish? Well, that's harder to come by. Thankfully, the 2021 Volvo XC60 places an equal importance on style. Inside and out, it's one of the most distinctive SUVs in its class. Its overall profile suggests the station wagons that Volvo was once known for, but it also features broad shoulders, sharp creases, and immediately recognizable headlight and taillight designs. The cabin is just as impressive, with a clean, simple look that pulls from traditional Scandinavian sensibilities.
Every XC60 comes with a four-cylinder engine. You might be expecting more from a luxury vehicle but Volvo gives you a choice of one of three versions. The base turbocharged engine goes toe to toe with similarly configured rivals, while more potent versions give you more power. Topping the range is the XC60 Recharge, which is a 400-horsepower plug-in hybrid. To top it off, even a bare-bones XC60 comes with a wealth of driver safety aids that cost extra on rivals. Overall, the XC60's eye-catching design, powerful yet efficient engine lineup, and emphasis on value give it strong appeal. You can read our in-depth Expert Rating below to learn more.
Which XC60 does Edmunds recommend?
While the T5 engine will be powerful enough for most drivers, the T6 is considerably more fun. Its unusual supercharged and turbocharged layout gives the motor some character, and the punchy acceleration is quite pleasant. The Inscription costs just a bit more than the R-Design, but we appreciate its breadth of added luxury features over the R-Design's sportier setup. The Advanced package is a must-have if you want adaptive cruise control, and the Bowers & Wilkins audio system is expensive but exceptional.
Volvo XC60 models
The 2021 Volvo XC60 is a small luxury SUV. It comes with one of three available powertrains that Volvo calls the T5, T6 or Recharge (last year's T8). These powertrains can then be matched to one of three trim levels that influence how many features the XC60 comes with. The trim levels are Momentum (called Inscription Expression for the Recharge powertrain), R-Design and Inscription.
The T5 has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (250 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque), while the T6 upgrades to a turbocharged and supercharged version of that engine (316 hp, 295 lb-ft of torque). The Recharge uses the same engine as the T6 but adds an electric motor and battery pack (combined 400 hp, 472 lb-ft). This is a plug-in hybrid powertrain that allows you to go about 19 miles on all-electric power before it switches over to regular gasoline power.
There is also a separate model called the XC60 Polestar Engineered, which gets a high-output version of the Recharge plug-in hybrid powertrain. It puts out 415 hp and 494 lb-ft of torque.
An eight-speed automatic is the only transmission available. All T5 models come standard with front-wheel drive (all-wheel drive is optional), while all other XC60s come standard with all-wheel drive.
Momentum (called Inscription Expression for the XC60 Recharge)
This base trim level comes with:
18-inch alloy wheels
Adaptive LED headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
Panoramic sunroof
Hands-free tailgate
Auto-dimming mirrors
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Driver-seat memory settings
Heated front seats (AWD only)
Leather upholstery
9-inch touchscreen
10-speaker audio system
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
Advanced driving aids and safety features include:
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
Lane keeping assist (steers the car back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane
Rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle behind you is about to cross your vehicle's path while in reverse)
Rear parking sensors (alerts you to obstacles that may not be visible behind the vehicle when parking)
Rear automatic braking (brakes if sensors detect an imminent collision with an object behind the vehicle)
There are numerous packages and stand-alone options available for the Momentum trim level. They include:
Premium package
Navigation system
Power-folding outboard rear headrests
Front parking sensors
Advanced package
Premium package
Ambient interior lighting
Wireless charging pad
Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Volvo and the car in front)
Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
360-degree camera system (gives you a top-down view of the Volvo and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line onto the windshield)
Climate package
Heated front and rear seats
Heated steering wheel
19- or 20-inch wheels
14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
Integrated booster cushions for outboard rear seats
Air ionizer (helps further filter and clean air in the cabin)
R-Design
The R-Design is positioned as the sporty XC60. Upgrades over the base model include:
Premium package
19-inch wheels
Black exterior trim
Ambient interior lighting
Four-zone automatic climate control (T5 and T6 only)
Heated front sport seats with cloth bolstering
14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
Unless already included, the optional features listed above for the Momentum trim are available for the R-Design except the 20-inch wheels. Additional options include:
21-inch wheels
Air suspension (adapts to provide greater ride comfort or sportier handling)
15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system
Inscription
The Inscription offers more luxury features, building off the Momentum with these additions:
Premium package
19-inch wheels
Chrome exterior trim
Ambient interior lighting
Four-zone automatic climate control (T5 and T6 only)
Ventilated front seats
Upgraded leather upholstery
14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
Unless already included, all features on the Momentum/Inscription Expression trim are available for the Inscription. Additional options include:
Air suspension
15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system
Polestar Engineered
The Polestar Engineered starts with the R-Design's upgrades, along with an uprated version of the Recharge model's powertrain. It also includes:
Advanced package
21-inch wheels with summer performance tires
Brembo front brakes
Special Öhlins suspension dampers
Gold-colored seat belts
15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system
The only options available for the Polestar Engineered trim are 22-inch wheels and the integrated booster cushions.
Helps avoid collisions by steering back into the lane if you cross a lane marking in the way of an oncoming vehicle.
Adaptive Cruise Control with Pilot Assist
Adjusts cruise control speed automatically in relation to the vehicle in front and supports the driver in keeping the car within the lane.
Driver Alert Control
Monitors steering inputs and senses if you're driving more erratically or have signs of drowsiness. Provides an audible warning and message.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Rating
Front Seat
5 / 5
Back Seat
5 / 5
Rollover
Rating
Rollover
4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result
No Tip
Risk Of Rollover
15.5%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
Side Impact Test
Good
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test
Good
Volvo XC60 vs. the competition
Volvo XC60 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
Edmunds' top-ranked small luxury SUV is the Mercedes-Benz GLC. Everything from its powerful engines to its superlative ride comfort and roomy interior is worthy of the Mercedes badge. The GLC bests the XC60 in a direct comparison, but it also costs more than the XC60 when comparably equipped.
The BMW X3 is another great pick for a small SUV. Like many entrants in the class, the X3 features an upscale interior and plenty of features. BMW gives you different engine options too. It offers a plug-in hybrid just like Volvo does, but it's not nearly as powerful as the XC60 Recharge. Overall, though, these two SUVs are pretty evenly matched.
If you like the XC60's appointments but don't necessarily need a high-riding SUV, you can save a few bucks by checking out the Volvo S60 instead. As the numerical designation suggests, the S60 sedan is quite similar to the XC60 and has the same engines and features.
The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 XC60 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.9 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the XC60 has 29.7 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Volvo XC60. Learn more
What's new in the 2021 Volvo XC60?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Volvo XC60:
Former T8 plug-in hybrid is now called Recharge
Adaptive headlights, hands-free liftgate and rear USB-C ports added as standard
Part of the second XC60 generation introduced for 2018
To determine whether the Volvo XC60 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the XC60. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the XC60's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2021 Volvo XC60 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Volvo XC60 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 XC60 and gave it a 7.9 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 XC60 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2021 Volvo XC60?
The least-expensive 2021 Volvo XC60 is the 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $69,500.
Other versions include:
T8 Polestar Engineered 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $69,500
If you're interested in the Volvo XC60, the next question is, which XC60 model is right for you? XC60 variants include T8 Polestar Engineered 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A). For a full list of XC60 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
More about the 2021 Volvo XC60
2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered Overview
The 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered is offered in the following styles: T8 Polestar Engineered 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A).
What do people think of the 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for
the 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered and all its trim types.
Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2021 XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered
2.0 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars.
Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what
other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database.
Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior,
exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a
comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered featuring deep dives into trim levels including T8 Polestar Engineered, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered?
The 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered T8 Polestar Engineered 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $70,495. The average price paid for a new 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered T8 Polestar Engineered 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) is trending $6,977 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,977 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $63,518.
The average savings for the 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered T8 Polestar Engineered 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) is 9.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:
We are showing 3 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered T8 Polestar Engineered 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineereds are available in my area?
2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered Listings and Inventory
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered and all available trim types: T8 Polestar Engineered. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2021 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you
that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make
higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand,
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new car every three years or so.
